More carriages on Coleraine trains

There will be more frequent services on the Whitehead and Coleraine lines, at least 20% additional seating across the network and the boosting of key commuter trains from three carriages to six, said Danny Kennedy.

“This will make rail travel in Northern Ireland even more attractive and encourage greater numbers of commuters out of their cars and on to public transport,” he said.

Mr Kennedy said the introduction of 20 new trains has started to deliver major improvements in service reliability and improved accessibility.

“In particular, the Larne line is now operating with modern new trains and consistently delivering around 98% punctuality,” he said.

Translink is to consult on the changes and hopes to introduce a new timetable by the end of the year.